Lily Allen has chosen to perform on Strictly Come Dancing in favour of rival show The X Factor, it's been reported.

The singer's appearance on the BBC's celebrity ballroom dancing show was confirmed by host Bruce Forsyth on Saturday.

But it has now emerged that Allen turned down a request from bosses of ITV's The X Factor, which airs at the same time.

"Lily was wanted by both shows so we're delighted,” a BBC source told the Daily Mirror.

Rod Stewart and Mariah Carey are also understood to be appearing on future episodes of Strictly Come Dancing.

The latest series of the popular show has already featured a guest performance from Dionne Bromfield, the sister of Amy Winehouse.

But the show has so far failed to capture more viewers than its Saturday night rival.

(by Jason Gregory)